International trade

OTTAWA—Unifor is calling for the federal government to implement a series of tough and comprehensive measures as part of ongoing public consultations on protecting Canadian autoworkers from China’s unfair electric vehicle trade practices. 

On Monday, June 24, Unifor National President Lana Payne joined workers, politicians and auto industry representatives for the federal government’s announcement of a 30-day consultation on potential policy response to guard against unfair Chinese electric vehicle imports.

Launching July 2, the consultations will solicit opinions on how best to prevent dumping and other unfair practices by EV manufacturers in China that threaten Canadian auto and auto parts jobs across the country. 

May 30, 2024

National President Lana Payne outlines Unifor’s priorities for the 2026 CUSMA in her testimony before the Standing Committee on International Trade.

Testimony of Lana Payne, National President
May 30, 2024

Good afternoon Madame Chair, and members of the committee.

My name is Lana Payne and I’m the National President of Unifor, Canada’s largest labour union in the private sector representing 320,000 working people across the country. Joining me is Unifor Director of Research Angelo DiCaro.

The president of Unifor Local 551 is warning that importing Korean line-pipe products will have a detrimental effect on Canadian jobs.

Amanda Servais testified on July 4 at the Canadian International Trade Tribunal during a hearing about Korean line-pipe imports to Canada, which is in competition with products that are built by Unifor members at Evraz in Camrose, Alta.

“Without adequate protections, the workers at Evraz Camrose will face layoffs, bargaining concessions, and potentially even the closure of the plant,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.